posted 06-25-201311:27 PM
I decided to try a menstrual cup. I bought a DivaCup and am using it for the first time. (I've never had any problems using tampons or any problems with cramping, but I'd heard some women report a shorter period using menstrual cups due to the suction and I was curious to see if that benefit would pan out for me too).

I experienced some pain when trying to insert the cup. I tried both of the suggested folding methods and neither worked. Fold option 2 was slightly better, but it still hurt too much for me to get the entire cup in and in the end, I gave up. I blame myself (I would get nervous and tense up, making things worse), rather than the cup, but I'm looking for ways to make insertion easier.

Is it safe to use a water-based lube to aid insertion? Will lube affect the seal?

posted 06-26-201306:25 PM
Snorkmaiden, those are great links! Thanks for sharing.

Minty, I found that it took a few tries over the course of two or three periods for me to figure out the best way to insert my menstrual cup. As I first got used to it I found that standing up with one foot propped up on something, like a toilet seat or the side of a tub, to be the easiest position to be in for inssertion.

Also, I really only found it to be comfortable once I trimmed the stem way down; I think it's recommended that you leave some length at the bottom but I cut mine almost all the way off before it felt right. Your experience may be different, though.
Posts: 1352 | From: San Francisco | Registered: Jan 2013
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posted 06-27-201305:20 PM
I agree with both the previous posters, it takes a little while to learn to use the cup comfortably and it helps to try a few different folds and insertion positions to figure out what's comfiest for you. I also trimmed the stem on mine wayyy down, almost removed it entirely, which helped.
Posts: 62 | From: California | Registered: Jun 2012
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